Bafana Bafana

Late Brazil goal breaks Bafana Bafana hearts, Samba stars progress to final to face giant-killers USA, the Host Nation were defeated by a goal from a Daniel Alves set piece

Despite being clear underdogs, South Africa showed no signs of tension or intimidation in facing Brazil, blowing on their vuvuzelas throughout, the crowd's confidence equalled the team's.

South Africa's defence battled throughout and contained Brazil's attacks for far longer than anticipated, Steven Pienaar in particular shone as he constantly put his body on the line in defence and often joined South Africa's attacking moves although Kaka and Maicon constantly tested the defence they were frustrated by a series of astute tackles and well-timed interceptions.

Although Pienaar played brilliantly, Kaka put on too strong a performance, Kaka was growing into the game slowly with bursts from midfield and series of shots on goal, but his chances were foiled either by goalkeeper Itumuleng Khune or the defence, a brilliant save by Cesar denied The Boys a great chance during the second half.

Brazilian manager Dunga seemed confident his side would make a breakthrough, it wasn't until ten minutes remained in the game before he made a change to the line-up, he appeared to be relying on the brilliance of Robinho, Luis Fabiano and Kaka to make the difference.

One substitue that came on in those last ten minutes was Barcelona fullback Daniel Alves and it was that substitution that made all the difference in the game, he broke Bafana hearts by curling a sweetly-struck free-kick into the net, with only four minutes remaining, the dream of a shock result was broken.